Maintaining good dental hygiene is essential for preserving good dental health. Yet, a quick brush of your teeth and rinse of your mouth may not be enough to minimize the risk of the most common dental diseases. If you are not practicing the most effective dental cleaning techniques, you may be facing cavities, gum disease, bad breath and other dental issues along with increased dental bills.

Brushing your teeth is the most basic step in keeping your teeth clean. Most dentists recommend using a soft-bristled toothbrush to avoid damaging enamel or irritating sensitive gum tissue. Hold the brush at a 45-degree angle, and brush your teeth using small, circular strokes. Some individuals prefer using an electric toothbrush, especially if they have restricted dexterity in their hands. Electric or battery-operated toothbrushes can be very effective in reducing plaque buildup. You should brush at least two times a day or after meals.

Aggressive handling can damage enamel and gums, so it is important that you use a soft touch when brushing. You should also use fluoride toothpaste or one that your dentist recommends. Brushing more often may not improve your dental health and may even harm it if it is done incorrectly. Brushing too soon after meals can lead to premature enamel wear and damage. After you have eaten, wait at least 30 minutes to one hour before brushing so that your saliva has a chance to neutralize any acids present and the remineralization process starts.

You will also need to floss your teeth daily in order to remove plaque buildup along the gumline. Dental floss or dental floss picks should be gently inserted between each set of teeth. You will need to slide the floss down to the gums and gently slide it around each tooth as you move it back up the side of the tooth. Repeat this process for each set of teeth.

If you are vulnerable to cavities or gum disease, your dentist may suggest you use an antimicrobial or fluoride mouth rinse. Mouth rinse should be used after brushing and flossing. They can reduce the number of cavity-causing bacteria in the mouth and promote the remineralization of teeth. If your dentist recommends a mouth rinse, follow his or her instructions for use.

Daily dental cleaning is crucial to reducing the levels of plaque and bacteria in your mouth, but twice a year dental checkups with professional dental cleanings are just as needed. A professional checkup may include dental X-rays to look for decay or bone loss invisible to the naked eye and a visual examination to check for aging or damaged restorations and dental disease. Your dentist or hygienist will then clean your teeth and remove any plaque or tartar buildup that you may have missed during daily cleanings.

Visit NOHO Dental Group, North Hollywood dental office to learn more. Dr. Afar, North Hollywood dentist can provide you with more information and tips about maintaining healthy teeth.